Segmented Program Access via Communication Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
Viewers are limited in the number of locations where they can access recorded video and audio content due to the need to view it on a device connected to a set-top box or DVR, and transferring content to a server for remote access consumes significant bandwidth.
Innovation Solution
A system that allows for remote access to segments of transmitted programs by storing the content on a communication server, where users can request and access specific segments via a communication device, reducing the need to transfer the entire program and minimizing bandwidth usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If content is transferred to a content server for remote access, then viewers can access recorded content at multiple locations, but significant bandwidth is consumed during transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the recorded program into multiple segments (e.g., chronological segments or thematic segments) that can be independently stored and accessed. This allows users to request and transfer only the specific segments they need rather than the entire program, significantly reducing bandwidth consumption while maintaining the ability to access content at multiple locations.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of transferring the complete recorded program to the content server, the system transfers only the necessary portions (segments) of the program. This partial action approach reduces the data volume transmitted over the network, thereby reducing bandwidth consumption while still providing sufficient content for user needs.
2Loss of information
If entire programs are transferred to the server, then complete content is available for remote viewing, but storage requirements and bandwidth usage increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments programs into manageable portions that can be selectively stored and transferred. This segmentation allows the server to store only the segments that are actually requested or anticipated to be needed, reducing overall storage requirements while maintaining the ability to provide complete content when needed through sequential segment retrieval.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements partial transfer by moving only the necessary segments to the server rather than entire programs. This reduces the quantity of data stored and transmitted, lowering storage requirements and bandwidth usage while still providing sufficient content access to meet user needs.
3Loss of energy
If recorded content is viewed on the original display device, then no additional bandwidth is needed, but the viewer is limited to a single location
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing programs into segments that can be independently transferred and stored on the content server, the system enables users to access content at different locations (different devices) without requiring continuous bandwidth consumption. The segmented approach allows for efficient distribution to multiple locations while maintaining low bandwidth usage during actual viewing.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for providing remote access to segments of a transmitted program is presented. The program is recorded, and then stored at a communication server. Information specifying a segment of the stored program is transferred from a communication device to the communication server. Also, a request for access to the specified segment of the stored program is transferred from another communication device to the communication server. In response to the request, the specified segment of the program is transferred from the communication server to the requesting communication device.